2021 DPSS Annual Report Online_FINAL

Annual Report 2020/2021

Self- Sufficiency

College student Kalayah Wilson, a recipient of CalFresh benefits, works at UC Riverside’s food pantry where she spreads the word about CalFresh to her peers.

CalFresh: California’s Biggest Anti-Hunger Program

In Riverside County where the population is 2.5 million, one of every seven residents uses CalFresh. Yet, more than 40,000 college students are eligible but less than 10 percent of students have signed up. Similarly, thousands of seniors across the region qualify for help purchasing healthy food but struggle to abandon long- held views about “food stamps.” Advocates in Riverside County and statewide are continuing to expand outreach to all communities, and advance measures that will increase participation among young adults, working-class families and fixed-income seniors who need a buffer against the health impacts of food insecurity. Colleges and universities are helping spread the word on their campuses. Kalayah Wilson, in her early 20s,

is a CalFresh recipient who attends UC Riverside. She balances classes with her role as a campus food pantry worker, guiding peers to resources and urging them to see if they qualify for CalFresh. “This food resource definitely helps me to live independently and eat healthy,” said Wilson. “It has motivated me to learn new recipes and try organic food items.” Outreach efforts on local campuses have helped boost student enrollment during the pandemic and destigmatize the program. Student peer navigators are critical to inform students and provide support, adds Wilson. “Sometimes all you need is that one person who is encouraging you to apply.”

CalFresh serves thousands of working-class families and fixed-income seniors, generating $1.03 billion in annual economic activity for Riverside County grocers, eateries and farmers markers. Many more qualify than use the program.

46